Asics Gel Cumulus 21 Review

Pros	Cons
Very comfortable shoe	Slightly heavy weight
Improved upper: more flexible and light	Bulky shoe on the foot
Effective and dynamic cushioning
Excellent quality
nice design

About

If a shoe is to be judged by its longevity in terms of marketing, the Asics Gel Cumulus 21 is certainly one of the reference models. It has been able to adapt over the years to the latest trends in running (soft cushioning, flexibility) without denying its origins. Thus, the Cumulus 21 is a relatively classic road shoe with a thick sole of 23-22 mm and a drop of 10 mm. The Gel units and the FlyteFoam and SpEVA foams provide comfortable cushioning with very pleasant and dynamic running sensations. The main improvement of this new model is the upper: more spacious (without losing support), more flexible and more breathable, it clearly improves the comfort of the shoe. We simply regret a weight always a little high with 281 grams for the men’s model and 252 grams for the women’s version. Thus, the Cumulus 21 appears a bit bulky despite a moderately thick sole. In summary, the Asics Gel Cumulus 21 is a very good road shoe that will continue to delight loyal fans of the collection and runners looking for a reliable and comfortable model.

Technologies

outsole

• Like many other models in the Asics line, the Gel Cumulus 21 has an AHAR rubber outsole . AHAR is the acronym for Asics High Abrasion Rubber and it is a technology that provides high abrasion resistance as well as excellent traction. This material is found in high wear areas of the outsole to ensure maximum durability.
• Additionally, the front of the outsole features the DuraSponge material which results in a blown rubber. This improves both cushioning and durability in the forefoot. Thus, DuraSponge makes it possible to absorb shocks while being flexible for a pleasant transition between the different phases of the stride.

Midsole

• The Gel Cumulus 21’s midsole features one of Asics’ most innovative technologies: FluidRide . It is a very light material that promises the ideal combination of rebound, durability and cushioning.
• On the other hand, we also find the FLYTEFOAM Propel technology , the energy foam of Asics which must provide a very good rebound and an excellent return of energy. This midsole technology is made with a unique elastomer compound that guarantees excellent responsiveness throughout the run, even at the end of the shoe’s life. It also uses super organic fibers which should reduce the risk of sole sagging as is the case with less firm or lower density foams.
• The midsole also uses SPEVA foam . Located between the sole and the upper, it absorbs shocks and improves the cushioning of the shoe.
• In addition, the IGS (Impact Guidance System) should encourage the athlete to adopt the most natural stride possible. Indeed, this technology is based on the design philosophy of Asics which wishes to complement and not to change the natural movements of the runner. This element combines several technologies to guarantee a smooth and harmonious stride. An external heel counter minimizes ankle movement while Trusstic technology improves stability, and DuoMax technology reduces tension and balances the foot.
• Finally, the Rearfoot GEL (at the rearfoot) and SoLyte technologies complete the cushioning system of the Asics Gel Cumulus 21. The Rearfoot GEL absorbs impacts during the cushioning phase (at the moment of impact with the ground), while Solyte, featuring a strong material called AHAR+, improves both the grip and the durability of the shoe.

Upper part (upper)

• This new model features a stretchable Jacquard mesh that provides breathability, flexibility and fit to the shoe. The multidirectional elasticity of the mesh guarantees perfect freedom of movement. It is also reinforced in strategic areas to improve the support of the shoe.
• On the other hand, the shoe also has elements made with reflective materials designed to make the shoe more visible in low light hours. This improvement allows the runner to run with more confidence after dark or before sunrise.
• In addition to Jacquard mesh, the upper of the shoe uses a ComfortDry liner . It is an antibacterial material that creates a cooler, drier and healthier environment in the shoe.
• The shoe also features Discrete Eyelets technology which consists of multiple independent eyelets to better distribute the tension of the laces across the entire foot and avoid awkward spots.
• Finally, the upper of the shoe has a seamless structure that reduces the risk of chafing and irritation.